Match Preview

Lookers sponsored South Shields Westoe will be looking to further their promotion hopes when they face Durham City at Woods Terrace on Saturday.

The previous meeting finished with a narrow Durham win, despite Westoe winning the lion’s share of both possession and territory. The Achilles heel of the day was a horrendous penalty count in the second half and a Durham defence who cleverly collapsed a series of scrums and mauls on the goal-line.

Durham are currently topping the league; however Westoe will be confident in taking the victory after their last performance against previous leaders Barnard Castle. In a close-fought match, Westoe played direct, simple rugby, wearing their opponents down to take the win. They know that a similar style will bring the victory on Saturday.

With last week’s match being postponed due to the weather, Westoe start refreshed and injury free and will relish the inevitable hard match in stall.

Rob Scorer moves from the bench to the starting line as part of a powerful front-row. The remainder of the pack remains the same. James Sant and coach, Graeme Smith wait eagerly on the bench in a formidable pack.

Luke Moffett returns at full-back with the versatile speedster Ben Roberts moving to the wing. Louis Hagen also returns, completing a dangerous attacking back-three.

Jordan Carey completes the bench and could play a decisive part in his return to the side after a three year absence.

The West Nautical Development Team face Durham away.

First Team Selection –

1. Ryan Lamb
2 Rob Scorer
3 Raymie Elliott
4 John Younghusband
5 Andrew Kirton
6 Sean Ramsay
7 Joe Mckenzie
8 Sam Gaff

9 Chris Judson
10 Michael Potts
11 Ben Roberts
12 Derek Worthington
13 Zach Clark
14 Louis Hagan
15 Luke Moffett

16 James Sant
17 Graeme Smith
18 Jordan Carey